Murchison is a town in the Tasman Region, in the upper South Island. It is on the “Four Rivers Plain” at the confluence of the Buller River and the Matakitaki River. The other two rivers are the Mangles and the Matiri. Recognised as the “Whitewater Capital” of New Zealand, nearby rivers include the Gowan, Glenroy and Maruia. Being on the edge of Kahurangi and Nelson Lakes National Parks there are many spectacular areas people can experience the great outdoors.

The inaugural Absolute Wilderness Adventure Race has chosen Murchison as the venue because it is a mecca for those seeking the great outdoors – rafting, walking, white water kayaking, and mountain biking.

Organized by world champion adventure racer Nathan Fa’avae and adventurer Mark Rayward. The Absolute Wilderness Adventure Race 2014 caters for anyone with a basic level of fitness and a desire for a challenge, something a little rugged.

“Both Mark and I have used Murchison as a launching pad for tons of adventures over the years, the wilderness is quickly accessible and very authentic, it’s easy to get off the beaten track, participants can expect a very scenic and challenging course that will reward their efforts. Parts of the course are remote and wild, an authentic adventure guaranteed” - Nathan Fa’avae.

Teams of three people, either male or mixed gender teams can choose to take part in either the;

#Adventure Race – ADV (winning time aimed @ 5-6 hours)

Expedition Race – EXP (winning time aimed @ 12-13 hours)

Teams will raft, hike and mountain bike their way through the course, navigating through a series of checkpoints using just a map and compass.
Each team will be required to carry compulsory equipment to ensure they have the gear to enjoy the event and for safety reasons.
Each team will also require a support crew, one or two mates who will use a vehicle to rendezvous with their team at certain points along the route to resupply the team and change equipment.
Note: Youth teams can only enter the ADV event
Limited to 80 teams